R-pod Owners Forum : New owner of used '09 152

R-pod Owners Forum : New owner of used '09 152 http://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : Introduce Yourself : New owner of used '09 152 Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Sat, 02 May 2026 12:28:42 +0000 Mon, 29 Jul 2013 15:58:38 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=3442 R-pod Owners Forum http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png http://www.rpod-owners.com/ New owner of used '09 152 : Originally posted by aram1948Our... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=36070#36070 Author: Keith-N-Dar
Subject: 3442
Posted: 29 Jul 2013 at 3:58pm

Originally posted by aram1948

Our vehicle did in fact overheat on one occasion but that was due to a bug screen attached to front end my son took it off and it ran much better evidently the air was not getting through.

You will have that when the screen gets full of bugs. Cooler and radiator full of bugs gives the same result. Give them some attention when cleaning the TV and life is good.]]> Mon, 29 Jul 2013 15:58:38 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=36070#36070 New owner of used '09 152 : We just bought a new one and our... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=36068#36068 Author: aram1948
Subject: 3442
Posted: 29 Jul 2013 at 12:36pm

We just bought a new one and our Vehicle 2013 escape has a towing capacity of 3600 pounds and even built-in hitch. The dealer said we had enough to tow the r pod. Mt wife and son picked it up in Atlanta go and the towing was great and no problems. You may also want to buy a transmission cooler to add to that which I suspect is very cheap. Our vehicle did in fact overheat on one occasion but that was due to a bug screen attached to front end my son took it off and it ran much better evidently the air was not getting through.

]]> Mon, 29 Jul 2013 12:36:23 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=36068#36068 New owner of used '09 152 : Originally posted by g4royceGood... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=36048#36048 Author: Zag
Subject: 3442
Posted: 28 Jul 2013 at 7:18pm

Originally posted by g4royce

Good to hear that everything is getting done and that FR is willing to help Smile

Let us know how the install turns out Smile

Cutie-Pod is home from the RV doctor with a reglazed window. I was told there was approx a 2 inch gap in the glazing. Confused

It's the same window and to me all I see differently is the rubber trim has been changed out. No drain holes but I'm hopeful the fix is final and does the trick. Still thoroughly impressed that FR agreed to cover the costs.

Here's the window post installation.

]]> Sun, 28 Jul 2013 19:18:57 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=36048#36048 New owner of used '09 152 : Those EZ-up style of pop-up tents... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=35905#35905 Author: techntrek
Subject: 3442
Posted: 23 Jul 2013 at 12:53am

Those EZ-up style of pop-up tents are our preferred camp shelter (and elsewhere). You look like you have everything you need for camp - just add campfire and beer.]]> Tue, 23 Jul 2013 00:53:40 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=35905#35905 New owner of used '09 152 : Here's a picture from a recent... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=35904#35904 Author: Zag
Subject: 3442
Posted: 23 Jul 2013 at 12:19am

Here's a picture from a recent outing to a local campground called Sooke River Campground. It was a fall back location for us as the first location (Sooke Pot Holes) was full when we arrived.

You can see the recall light kit that was recently installed and if you look closely, the Cutie-Pod (my first mod) sticker on the back. I've removed most of the decals from the back and front.

I don't have the side tent but picked up the 10 x 10 ft gazebo at Wal-Mart and am pretty happy with it's functionality. I picked up a 9x12 ft mat today at Costco to complete the outdoor space.

All in all a great outing. It was myself, my dog, my friend, his wife and their dog (pictured) for this trip. Cozy but not problematic for space.

The next trip is in a couple of weeks; the first outing with my wife and baby (they've been out of town). Now that I (hopefully) have figured out the general ins and outs of the camper I am excited to introduce them to the great experience of r-pod camping!

]]> Tue, 23 Jul 2013 00:19:18 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=35904#35904 New owner of used '09 152 : Good to hear that everything is... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=35894#35894 Author: g4royce
Subject: 3442
Posted: 22 Jul 2013 at 3:46pm

Good to hear that everything is getting done and that FR is willing to help Smile

Let us know how the install turns out Smile

]]> Mon, 22 Jul 2013 15:46:43 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=35894#35894 New owner of used '09 152 : UPDATE:I now have the light kit... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=35890#35890 Author: Zag
Subject: 3442
Posted: 22 Jul 2013 at 2:37pm

UPDATE:

I now have the light kit installed courtesy of FR and the local dealership. It took a bit of time to get the process going and the dealership has only been carrying the line for a couple of years so the recall work was new to them. All in all it looks pretty good and I'm happy to have that off the to do list.

FR has also agreed to cover the rear window leak repair. Interestingly, the dealership explained (or tried to) that the leak is a result of the window glaze and not the seal. FR is still okay with covering the costs but as a result, the dealership has to have the window sent out to be re-glazed locally.

I had to google what window glaze meant as my first thought was glaze as in the icing on a doughnut but it's not like that... It's the way the window is mounted into it's frame.

This might be a different way of explaining the known issue of the leak, or something different. Either way I am happy that FR stepped up and offered to support their product even though I am a) not the original owner b) the camper was imported from the US to Canada and c) the camper is now 4 years old. Now that's great customer service!

]]> Mon, 22 Jul 2013 14:37:15 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=35890#35890 New owner of used '09 152 : I've got a Prodigy P2 brake... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=34830#34830 Author: jeep_pod
Subject: 3442
Posted: 25 Jun 2013 at 12:44pm

I've got a Prodigy P2 brake controller mounted below the steering wheel. Plug and play device, I hardly know it's there.

]]> Tue, 25 Jun 2013 12:44:31 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=34830#34830 New owner of used '09 152 : Originally posted by jeep_podI... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=34821#34821 Author: Zag
Subject: 3442
Posted: 25 Jun 2013 at 9:16am

Originally posted by jeep_pod

I am also on the Island. My Jeep rated to tow 3500 lbs seems to tow the pod fine. It is a stick shift with 32 inch tires and the stock 3.8 V6.

Great to meet another islander! Are you using a brake controller? I know a number of other members are towing with 3500# capacity but notice it when having to tackle the bigger hills or higher speeds.

]]> Tue, 25 Jun 2013 09:16:13 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=34821#34821 New owner of used '09 152 : I am also on the Island. My Jeep... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=34809#34809 Author: jeep_pod
Subject: 3442
Posted: 25 Jun 2013 at 2:49am

I am also on the Island. My Jeep rated to tow 3500 lbs seems to tow the pod fine. It is a stick shift with 32 inch tires and the stock 3.8 V6.

]]> Tue, 25 Jun 2013 02:49:26 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=34809#34809 New owner of used '09 152 : Originally posted by Zag Originally... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=34677#34677 Author: Seanl
Subject: 3442
Posted: 21 Jun 2013 at 3:10pm

Originally posted by Zag

Originally posted by g4royce

Zag, sorry for the late reply. All 152s are covered under the recall. You will need your pod VIN # which is on the sticker just inside the screen door and/or on the silver sticker on the outside of your pod by the driver's side. Contact Susan of FR and she should be able to send the parts to the nearest FR dealer of your choosing to do the install. The thread on the recall is here.

As for the rear window leak, it was a frame-design problem on the first batch of rpods. The original frame installed did not have proper weeping/drainage holes and the water would be forced into the frame and then drain into the interior of the pod. Technically this is a design and manufacturing defect that was corrected in later models so FR should in theory give you an entire new replacement window for free. However the cost of installation is not included if you are not the original owner/pod is still under warranty etc. The labour should be around $100-200 from a FR dealer. Check to see if you have the new frame installed. it should not be curved or flush with the window but look a little awkward upon close inspection. Basically a flat window installed in a very curved wall.... Tongue

It seems that the leak was much more severe on the 151s and the 152s because of the curve on the back wall. On the earliest 17x series it was also a problem but not that noticeable.

Thanks g4royce for the info. I started by contacting the local dealer and they also redirected me to Susan at FR. I emailed her my proof of ownership; just waiting to hear back.

I think I will follow up on my original email and look at having the back window addressed at the same time. I've heard mixed reviews regarding the local dealer so I'll have to see how it goes.

I bought my Rpod used from a non Rpod dealer and took it to a local Rpod dealer to have the lights put on. They did it no Questions asked. Now maybe that was because 1. The Rpod had been purchased originally at that dealer and 2. The Rpod was a Canadian Rpod. The Canadian Recall came about a year before the US one did.

]]> Fri, 21 Jun 2013 15:10:11 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=34677#34677 New owner of used '09 152 : Originally posted by g4royce Zag,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=34644#34644 Author: Zag
Subject: 3442
Posted: 20 Jun 2013 at 5:37pm

It seems that the leak was much more severe on the 151s and the 152s because of the curve on the back wall. On the earliest 17x series it was also a problem but not that noticeable.

Thanks g4royce for the info. I started by contacting the local dealer and they also redirected me to Susan at FR. I emailed her my proof of ownership; just waiting to hear back.

I think I will follow up on my original email and look at having the back window addressed at the same time. I've heard mixed reviews regarding the local dealer so I'll have to see how it goes.

]]> Thu, 20 Jun 2013 17:37:03 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=34644#34644 New owner of used '09 152 : In order to answer the question... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=34621#34621 Author: Thinker
Subject: 3442
Posted: 20 Jun 2013 at 12:00pm

In order to answer the question "can I tow with......"

Answer these questions:
How far do you want to tow?
How willing are you to climb hills in a low gear at 30 MPH?
How willing are you to destroy your transmission?

This is not the voice of doom, but are simply factors to consider. If you don't go too far and don't push the speed too hard on hills especially, you may not keep the vehicle long enough to see the effect of heat on the transmission.

You may be able to install a tranny cooler and even a transmission temp gauge to help you gauge when you need to stop for a rest stop or when it is no problem and can keep on going and forget about the heat.

As far as performance... chugging up hills in a head wind is what it is... how patient are you?
]]> Thu, 20 Jun 2013 12:00:27 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=34621#34621 New owner of used '09 152 : Zag, sorry for the late reply.... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=34613#34613 Author: g4royce
Subject: 3442
Posted: 20 Jun 2013 at 10:08am

Zag, sorry for the late reply. All 152s are covered under the recall. You will need your pod VIN # which is on the sticker just inside the screen door and/or on the silver sticker on the outside of your pod by the driver's side. Contact Susan of FR and she should be able to send the parts to the nearest FR dealer of your choosing to do the install. The thread on the recall is here.

It seems that the leak was much more severe on the 151s and the 152s because of the curve on the back wall. On the earliest 17x series it was also a problem but not that noticeable.

]]> Thu, 20 Jun 2013 10:08:15 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=34613#34613 New owner of used '09 152 : Originally posted by Seanl... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=33902#33902 Author: Zag
Subject: 3442
Posted: 03 Jun 2013 at 10:30am

Originally posted by Seanl

Did you import the trailer to Canada? I ask because in order to import a vehicle into Canada you need a recall clearance letter.
[/QUOTE]

Seanl,

The original owner imported the trailer into Canada just prior to me buying it. Apparently I was the first person to mention the recall when I first looked at it. Somebody wasn't being thorough in their job I guess...

]]> Mon, 03 Jun 2013 10:30:59 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=33902#33902 New owner of used '09 152 : Originally posted by ZagHi... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=33886#33886 Author: Seanl
Subject: 3442
Posted: 03 Jun 2013 at 6:40am

Originally posted by Zag

Hi G4Royce,

I had all the windows resealed when I bought the RV so I should be okay there?

The running lights haven't been put on yet (original owner wasn't aware of the recall). Once I get all my TV fixed up with a 7-pin connector I'll reach out to the local dealership to get the lights added. Hopefully I won't have any issues with the trailer being from the US orginally (and currently migrated to Canada).

Did you import the trailer to Canada? I ask because in order to import a vehicle into Canada you need a recall clearance letter.
]]> Mon, 03 Jun 2013 06:40:43 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=33886#33886 New owner of used '09 152 : Hi G4Royce,I had all the windows... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=33884#33884 Author: Zag
Subject: 3442
Posted: 02 Jun 2013 at 11:45pm

Hi G4Royce,

I had all the windows resealed when I bought the RV so I should be okay there?

]]> Sun, 02 Jun 2013 23:45:02 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=33884#33884 New owner of used '09 152 : Congrats. The flip side of what... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=33796#33796 Author: techntrek
Subject: 3442
Posted: 30 May 2013 at 8:55pm

Congrats. The flip side of what sailo is saying is with a 4-pin connector you only get left/right/brake/running lights. Since you must also have brakes (not just brake lights), you'll have to convert to a 7-pin Bargeman and get a brake controller. ]]> Thu, 30 May 2013 20:55:37 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=33796#33796 New owner of used '09 152 : Also just bought a Honda pilot... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=33777#33777 Author: sailo25
Subject: 3442
Posted: 30 May 2013 at 11:30am

Also just bought a Honda pilot which I will hook up power and brakes.]]> Thu, 30 May 2013 11:30:18 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=33777#33777 New owner of used '09 152 : You can but you do not have brakes... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=33776#33776 Author: sailo25
Subject: 3442
Posted: 30 May 2013 at 11:28am

You can but you do not have brakes and 12v power to your trailer when towing the one I got has leads that can be run to the battery and brake controller if you install one. I have not but I am pulling short distances and have a 151]]> Thu, 30 May 2013 11:28:06 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=33776#33776 New owner of used '09 152 : A quick update. After much deliberating... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=33774#33774 Author: Zag
Subject: 3442
Posted: 30 May 2013 at 11:17am

A quick update. After much deliberating I found a well-loved 2001 Nissan Pathfinder 4x4 with a 3.5L V6 so we are one big step closer to being able to tow our R-Pod which we've dubbed Cuty-Pod.

Question? The TV has a 4-pin trailer connector, can I get that adapter to work with a 7-pin connector or am I looking at putting in a new 7-pin kit?

]]> Thu, 30 May 2013 11:17:33 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=33774#33774 New owner of used '09 152 : Just finished our first trip out... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32830#32830 Author: sailo25
Subject: 3442
Posted: 05 May 2013 at 4:56pm

Just finished our first trip out with our 151 behind 2011 outback 4cyl. NEED a bigger TV handled ok but 60 mph is about top speed comfortable without working engine and tran. to hard and that was on fairly flat roads. Weighed it after packing for the trip tongue weight 320lbs and total weight of 2720 lbs.
]]> Sun, 05 May 2013 16:56:48 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32830#32830 New owner of used '09 152 : On another note, on the '09... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32823#32823 Author: g4royce
Subject: 3442
Posted: 05 May 2013 at 3:31pm

On another note, on the '09 152: get your back window checked for leaks as it was the earlier models that had the back window problems and had to be replaced. Also check that you've had the factory running lights done Smile

]]> Sun, 05 May 2013 15:31:48 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32823#32823 New owner of used '09 152 : Welcome to the forum!We're... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32822#32822 Author: g4royce
Subject: 3442
Posted: 05 May 2013 at 3:27pm

Welcome to the forum!

We're towing with a 6 cylinder Subaru Outback mostly over gentle terrain here in the NE in decent weather. However, when we tried to tow up and down scenic hills in the finger lakes (the wrong way) during a heat wave, we definitely stressed the car. We have a standard class 2 hitch and also added a tranny-cooler.

We pack quite lightly but are slowly accumulating "pod things". Tongue

We still decant our shampoo and toiletries into just what we need instead of going for those in-stall dispensers. Every little bit counts when you're that close to your limit Smile

]]> Sun, 05 May 2013 15:27:33 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32822#32822 New owner of used '09 152 : Welcome. Hills and highway speeds... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32806#32806 Author: techntrek
Subject: 3442
Posted: 03 May 2013 at 11:32pm

Welcome. Hills and highway speeds will not mix with a 3500 pound rating on a TV and the pod. The wind resistance at highway speeds is the deciding factor - not weight - although the slightly lighter weight of the 152 can only help. Ironically you'll be ok on back roads since wind resistance never kicks in. We towed with a Sienna for years and didn't have a problem with our popup which was heavier than the pod, but trips to Maine and Florida with the pod quickly showed me that it wasn't up to 55 mph+ and head winds or hills.]]> Fri, 03 May 2013 23:32:52 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32806#32806 New owner of used '09 152 : I currently live in NC, and I... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32757#32757 Author: P&M
Subject: 3442
Posted: 02 May 2013 at 7:59pm

I currently live in NC, and I am fine with my TV rated at 3500# for this area.

I am from and grew up in Washington State and Alaska, have spent a lot of time in BC and Alberta, and wouldn't even think of towing my Pod in those areas with my current TV. Minimum I'd go with is 5000#.

Hope that helps.

]]> Thu, 02 May 2013 19:59:44 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32757#32757 New owner of used '09 152 : Welcome....ditto on the 5000 tow... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32750#32750 Author: Racer|X|
Subject: 3442
Posted: 02 May 2013 at 7:34pm

Welcome....ditto on the 5000 tow min.]]> Thu, 02 May 2013 19:34:38 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32750#32750 New owner of used '09 152 : Zag, good thinkin'. It'svery... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32747#32747 Author: Kickstart
Subject: 3442
Posted: 02 May 2013 at 7:17pm

Zag, good thinkin'. It's very easy to choose a tow vehicle that's too small, and it'll really cost you in the long run--the voice of experience talking here. I've learned the hard way to not sweat the additional expenses for an adequate tow rig, verses saving some bucks and dealing with towing at 4000+ rpms on hills and against winds with nothing in reserve. Plus, you won't be frustrated holding up traffic on the many two lane pulls we have in the Northwest areas of Canada and the U.S. Most of us don't consider that if we have to ask whether our vehicle is adquate to tow our Pod, then we will probably find times when it really isn't. ]]> Thu, 02 May 2013 19:17:00 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32747#32747 New owner of used '09 152 : Thanks for the warm welcomes and... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32746#32746 Author: Zag
Subject: 3442
Posted: 02 May 2013 at 5:49pm

Thanks for the warm welcomes and great feedback regarding tow capacity.

Given my lack of experience and the terrain I hope to travel I am now focusing my attention on finding a good used SUV to act as my tv (and second car). Then in a few years once I've paid down the trailer I can look at upgrading to something newer. I've lined up some Ford Explorers to look and they all have 5000lb+ tow capacity. The one is an 02 with a Class 3 hitch and 7K tow capacity. Plenty of room for the family and should be able to get up the hills (since I'm at sea level).

Hope to share some pics soon!

]]> Thu, 02 May 2013 17:49:03 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32746#32746 New owner of used '09 152 : Welcome and congrats on your new-to-you... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32744#32744 Author: Meriflower
Subject: 3442
Posted: 02 May 2013 at 5:33pm

Welcome and congrats on your new-to-you Pod!

Personally I wouldn't go any less than 5000# tow rating. You might do ok with a TV rated at 3500# but I would use extra caution if hilly, windy conditions, and/or passing semis. Must haves is a good weight distribution hitch, sway control, and brake controller. We use an Equalizer hitch which does both weight distribution and sway together. For the brake controller, we like Prodigy. If you get a vehicle with the trailer tow package, make sure is has a class III hitch, with a 7-plug in, and also a tranny cooler.

As others already stated, there are people out there with different TV/trailer combinations. Some tow close to capacity and feel comfortable in doing so. I am not one of those people.

]]> Thu, 02 May 2013 17:33:47 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3442&PID=32744#32744